Seniors Use Skits and Songs to Stifle Scammers

Los Angeles area senior citizens are in danger. Con artists have them in their sights. But they have some powerful allies in the fight against elder abuse. The Stop Senior Scams Acting Program, which uses entertainment, skits, and song and dance to raise awareness among seniors about fraud, is leading the fight against this insidious threat against the elderly. The group was recently spotlighted in the Los Angeles Times, and has gained the enthusiastic approval of elder abuse lawyers in Los Angeles.

Fraud, scams, and con artists are a threat to everyone, but the elderly are especially at risk. According to the Federal Trade Commission, which tracks such crimes, over 25% of Americans who fall victim to fraud each year are over the age of 60. Older citizens are a favorite target of con artists because they tend to be more trusting, are more likely to have savings and good credit, and are less likely to report a crime, according to the FBI. Elder abuse attorneys agree that fraud is among the most common types of abuse they see.

The Stop Senior Scams Acting Program can relate. The performers are all senior citizens themselves. The youngest member of the group is 65, and the oldest is 96. Most have been the target of scams at one time or another, and a few of them fell prey to the swindlers and can relate their personal stories to reinforce their message.

The group got its start six years ago as an acting class for older adults at the Felicia Mahood Senior Center. Many of the members joined in hopes of landing gigs as actors in commercials requiring mature people. The City Council took notice and someone suggested they raise awareness by acting out senior scams, which have been a growing problem in the city. The idea took off, and now they’re in demand at senior centers, nursing homes, churches, community groups, and temples all over the area. They get their message across to seniors by acting out the most common types of scams in a humorous way. It’s an effective approach. Public officials and elder abuse lawyers in Los Angeles agree the group has had a very positive impact.

If you or someone you know has been the victim of elder abuse, fraud, or Los Angeles nursing home abuse, contact us today for a free, confidential, and no obligation consultation.

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